Itinerary: Uncover Iceland’s Natural Treasures

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Abercrombie & Kent introduces the epic landscapes and dramatic natural wonders of Iceland on this ten-day journey. You’ll see the highlights of Iceland’s southwest coast with its dramatic fjords, mountains, volcanoes, geysers and waterfalls as well as the scenic attractions of the South Shore. Along your journey stay in hand-picked, charming boutique properties that range from a log cabin-style lodge to a sophisticated Art Deco city hotel.

Day 1

Reykjavik

Arrive into Reykjavik to a warm welcome from Abercrombie and Kent, then transfer to your historic hotel. This evening, you will meet your local host and fellow travellers for a tour briefing.

Day 2

Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital is small and compact and easily explored on foot. A morning stroll with your guide takes you to some of the main highlights – the 19th century Icelandic Parliament building, the distinctive Harpa concert hall and the whimsical Hallgrimskirkja church, Reykjavik’s most iconic landmark. During the tour a private visit to a local art gallery is arranged and a meeting with the artist. Conclude this evening is a welcome dinner at your hotel.

Day 3

Reykjavik – Husafell

The outdoor adventure begins today as you make our way northeast to Husafell, one of Iceland’s best spots for watching the Northern Lights. The high snowy domes of nearby Langjokull glacier ensure cold, crisp, cloudless skies and perfect weather conditions for Aurora Borealis. Stop off on the way at Iceland’s highest waterfall, Glymur, to admire the panorama or, for those feeling energetic, hike to the top for a close-up look. In a country defined by its thermal energy, we’ll visit Deildartunguhver, one of the most powerful hot springs in Europe which provides most of the water used for central heating in towns near and far. Finish the day’s touring at two beautiful waterfalls, Barnafoss and Hraunfossar.

Day 4

Husafell – Thingvellir National Park – Hella

Y our journey today will be by super-jeep to Langjokull glacier, Europe’s second largest glacier. You’ll have an unexpected adventure when you hike through an ice tunnel deep into the glacier’s interior where you’re surrounded by centuries-old ice. Traversing the country’s second highest jeep road we’ll pass through Kaldidalur Valley to reach Thingvellir National Park. As well as extraordinary scenery, the park has geological significance being situated across two tectonic plates that are gradually moving away from each other. Our next two nights are spent in a charming log cabin style hotel located right beside the salmon-filled East Ranga River where views of the legendary Hekla volcano are spectacular.

Day 5

Golden Circle

Begin today touring through the Golden Circle, a marvelous showcase of all that Iceland has to offer – beautiful landscapes, powerful geysers and the most magnificent of waterfalls. Start off in the Geysir area, where several geysers emit hot steam every few minutes. Continue to Gullfoss waterfall, Iceland’s most famous, which plummets 32 metres down to a canyon below. Top off the day with a visit to Fridheimar farm where tomatoes are miraculously grown year-round in greenhouses. You will experience how this greenhouse works and taste some of the fresh produce.

Day 6

South Shore – Hofn

The south shore of Iceland is well known for its scenic beauty with yet more jaw-dropping waterfalls as well as black sandy beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see. Today’s exploration takes you to the extraordinary 60 metre high Seljalandsfoss waterfall which flows from the famous glacier of Eyjafjallajokull volcano. Next you will stop at the basalt sea stacks of Reynisdrangar, the black sand beach of Reynisfjara and Skogarfoss waterfall which is counted amongst Iceland‘s most beautiful. Continue along the south coast to your accommodation which is located next to the largest glacier in Europe.

First up this morning is an opportunity to admire the huge Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon with its floating icebergs. This is Iceland’s deepest lake measuring over 248 metres. Then you will wander down to the beach where small icebergs wash up on to the shore before continuing east all the way to Stokksnes, a replica of a Viking village built for a movie that was never made. Keep an eye out for seals on the beach before visiting the crystal ice caves (March & November) which are formed when the glacial rivers retract and the water freezes. Each year new caves are formed making every visit unique. During the summer departure (July) you will travel by zodiac through the Jokulsarlon lagoon.

There is more extraordinary wilderness to discover today when you visit Skaftafell, a nature reserve dominated by dramatic mountains and the glacier-topped peak of Hvannadalshnjukur – at over 2,000m this is Iceland’s highest. Enjoy a short hike to the Svinafellsjokull glacier and see the longest bridge in Iceland which crosses the river Skeidara. Then you will arrive and relax at your luxury accommodations at Hotel Ranga.

Return to the capital today via the South Shore stopping on the way at the magical Blue Lagoon whose mineral-rich qualities are said to have important restorative powers. There’s time for a long dip in the warm waters which will instantly rejuvenate and soothe before you get to your hotel. The afternoon is yours to further explore, shop for some uniquely Icelandic products or simply relax. This evening a farewell dinner is included at Sjavargrillid, where you’ll enjoy inventive Icelandic fare at its best.